What has your organization done that you're most proud of?What inspires me the most about Life Navigators is that we focus not only on supporting the needs of individuals with disabilities but also on encouraging them to give back to others. Life Navigators’ vision is to assist individuals with disabilities to be active and connected members of our community. We want our consumers to not only look at what we can do for them but also what they are able to do for others. The individuals that we serve have so much to offer and, given the right tools, they are able to have such a positive impact on our community. We offer numerous volunteer opportunities throughout the year, including sorting food at Feeding America and participating in clean up days with Keep Greater Milwaukee Beautiful. These are often their favorite events to participate in, and it’s so inspiring to see how proud our consumers are to help others.

How has your work in the nonprofit sector inspired you?My work in the nonprofit sector has inspired me to take the ideas I’ve learned from Life Navigators and apply them to advancing the missions of other nonprofits throughout the community. I have volunteered at various other organizations throughout the years, and it’s so motivating to see how passionate and dedicated each one is to their cause. The small and connected feel of the Milwaukee community allows nonprofits to easily partner together in order to benefit both organizations. I enjoy being a part of a community that puts such an emphasis on these partnerships and connections.

How have you or your organization been involved in NPC? How has NPC helped you?Life Navigators has been fortunate to be a benefiting organization of The Nonprofit Center of Milwaukee's Giving Tree Program for the last three years. Thanks to NPC and sponsors throughout the Milwaukee community, 150 of our consumers and families receive wonderful gifts for the holiday season. These gifts mean so much to the individuals that we serve, and for most, this is the only gift that they receive. I meet with each of my consumers to ask them their three “wishes” for their Giving Tree tag. They are so grateful to be provided choices and have an impact in the decision. My consumers are very thoughtful when they choose their wishes, often putting items that they truly need. While they often request the simplest of items, our sponsors have been so generous. Many of my consumers have been surprised with extra special touches to their gifts. It’s truly inspiring to see how generous the Giving Tree sponsors are, and how it has such an impact in making the holidays special for the individuals with disabilities that we serve.